Grant: Project Grant

Patients with cancer often experience significant muscle loss, a condition that can persist even after the cancer has been cured. This loss of muscle mass is linked to several challenges, including physical disability, longer hospital stays, increased side effects during cancer treatment, diminished quality of life, and reduced survival rates. Ensuring proper protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle and overall health. However, existing nutritional guidelines for patients with cancer lack specificity and are not grounded in solid scientific evidence. The aim of this project is to determine the protein needs of patients with cancer, both during and after cancer treatment when people become cancer-free, using innovative and noninvasive methods. Our initial findings on this topic are remarkable, revealing that individuals may require more protein than previously thought. We now want to delve deeper by including more patients, covering different types of cancer, and examining different stages of the cancer journey. Overall, our results will help us develop more targeted recommendations for patients that dietitians can use to offer better nutritional advice to people undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment, making their treatment and recovery more effective. Our ultimate goal is to make a real difference in the lives of those facing cancer.